Ireland will not boycott the Eurovision Song Contest even if Israel takes part, the Taoiseach has said. RTÉ has received hundreds of emails urging a boycott in a stance against the conflict involving Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Mr Varadkar also pointed to previous winner of the competition, trans woman Dana International, who represented Israel and said many people in Israel have “Western liberal outlook”. So I don't think a unilateral boycott by Ireland of any sporting event or any musical event or competition is the right way to go." The Taoiseach said “a lot of people” in Israel are liberals who don’t support their government.

Source: Irish Independent December 25, 2023 04:39 UTC